Rest In Peace, ProKid

South Africans woke up on Women’s Day to the shocking news that one of South Africa’s hip-hop greats, Pro Kid, has died. The family of the 37-year-old confirmed that the star suffered a seizure while enjoying time with his friends on August 8 and that they’re still coming to terms with this devastating loss.

“The legendary SA hip-hop artist affectionately known as ProKid of Hip-Hop passed away on Wednesday‚ August 8‚ 2018. He suffered a severe seizure attack‚ whilst visiting friends and paramedics were called in to assist‚ they did their best to revive him to no avail and called his time of death at 20.38pm‚” ProKid’s family said in a statement. “He is survived by his mother Fikile, his father Zwelakhe Kheswa, wife Ayanda, three-year-old daughter Nonkanyezi, his brothers and his extended family. Further details will be furnished as soon as his family has gathered.”

The rapper was considered a one of the pioneers of the local hip-hop game and was behind tracks like Ghetto Science and Uthini Ngo Pro. Being one of the most prominent faces of South African hip-hop in its early stages, ProKid inspired a wave of the biggest stars in the genre today who were, naturally, shocked by his passing.

Dankie San you made ghetto metaphors and punchlines seem effortless, you birthed a whole generation of spitters that were inspired by your style. A rap pioneer, word engineer top 5 dead or alive. #RipProKid and condolences to your family. pic.twitter.com/NhDo19QUTJ

Rest In Peace PRO KID, we are grateful for everything you did in your time here. You will be celebrated as a pioneer of the game and remembered as an all round great person 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 RIP BIG MAN, the angels await you.